So, with so much uncertainty, what can you do?
Take a Conservative Approach
Disrupted sleep in children
Consequences of undiagnosed sleep apnea affect more than a restful night. Their social behavior could produce more fights with friends or behavior issues due to inattentiveness and moodiness. Sleep apnea can result in slower growth and development due to not producing enough growth hormone. Obesity can also contribute to the list of health issues causing your child to have higher resistance to insulin as well as feeling fatigued during the day.
Sleep disorders in children can lead to lower school grades and cranky children to even behavioral problems in their social lives.
The first step is to alert your child’s pediatrician if you believe that your child is suffering from a sleep disorder or was misdiagnosed with ADHD. After a proper physical exam, they will determine if an ENT visit may be needed for enlarged adenoids and/or tonsils or a sleep study.
An A.W.A.K.E. support group through the American Sleep Apnea Association can help with any questions to others who have experienced misdiagnosis and the road ahead while dealing with pediatric OSA.
If your child still is diagnosed having ADHD, talk to your doctor about options. A non-stimulant may be a better option. These medications take longer to start working than stimulants, but can also improve focus, attention, and impulsivity in a person with ADHD.
Next steps are available with our doctors to diagnose your child correctly through a free pediatrics phone consultation at the Alaska Sleep Clinic.